A brutal afternoon attack in a Lakewood motel parking lot has left a woman recovering from about 20 stab wounds and a local man facing two counts of attempted murder. Authorities say 43-year-old Derrick Chapman is accused of repeatedly stabbing and strangling the woman outside the Days Inn on South Tacoma Way on Friday, then resuming the assault even after an initial flurry of violence. He is being held on $100,000 bail and is scheduled to return to court on April 7.
Video and witness accounts
Police say surveillance footage shows the woman bolting from a car as Chapman chases her through the parking lot, appearing to punch and make stabbing motions while witnesses report hearing her screams. Hospital staff told investigators she suffered about 20 puncture wounds and small lacerations to her liver, right kidney and spleen, injuries that were not considered life-threatening at the time of the report, according to KING 5.
Charges and court records
Prosecutors have charged Chapman with attempted first-degree murder for allegedly strangling the woman after resuming the attack and attempted second-degree murder for the initial stabbing, according to Pierce County court records. Bail was set at $100,000, and Chapman’s next hearing is scheduled for April 7. He was booked into custody after officers responded to the Days Inn lot shortly after 3:20 p.m., according to the filings.
Victim's account and motel setting
Investigators say the woman told police she had gone to the motel to pick up belongings and bring Chapman food, and later identified him as the only person who hurt her. Witnesses and surveillance footage describe a chaotic scene in the parking lot as bystanders tried to step in and stop the attack, details described in Pierce County court records. Lakewood police and Pierce County prosecutors are continuing to investigate as the case moves through the court system.
What to watch next
Chapman’s case will proceed in Pierce County Superior Court, where prosecutors could adjust the charges as more evidence is reviewed. Lakewood police have asked anyone with information to contact investigators, and officials say further details will emerge through future court filings or public statements. This story will be updated as new documents or official updates become available.
